INFORMATION 05-21-2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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lIeritage Preservation COmrrll,,aon April-'>,2007 Page 2 City should want a wide range of ideas to keep the project legitimate. He felt that the HPC had to fight to have the Historic speakers added to the Task Force agenda. Comnussioner Rohlf concluded by stating that historic character involves buildings. Buildings are a part of historic character in their design, look, ete. and there is less of a vISUal tie-in now with the newest construction. Discussion followed regarding the height of the buildings being constructed. Councilman Farber commented on his opinion that the Bluff Block is "high quality" but that Jackson Place is less so due to wood construction. Comnussioner RoWf stated that the land under Jackson Place was donated to the City of Elk River in the 1800's for open space (forever). He mentioned a loophole that the City used to approve the project. Councilman Farber stated that the Council and Mayor speak of three more buildings "going next". Commissioner Rohlf commented that the phrase "economically market driven" was a joke because the City "gave away the farm" to get the projects underway. He added that it didn't make sense economically. Councilman Farber stated that he liked downtown, but unfortunately there were some bad facades put on in the 1980's. He asked a question "where do you draw the line". The Sunshine Depot was discussed. Chair Lindberg conunented that the Task Force is to decide what is allowed downtown and referenced the Maxfield study. He discussed the developers that spoke to the Task Force and added that he called Dunbar (one of the contractors) after the meeting. Chair Lindberg stated that Dunbar felt the old buildings should be maintained on the Bluff Block. He added that Dunbar stated he had never seen a community that wanted to tear down their old buildings. Councilman Farber questioned whether it was a matter of money. Commissioner Rohlf stated that the City found money to tear down the buildings. Commissioner Nadeau- Peterson stated that there are grants to help rehabilitate old buildings. Councilman Farber stated that he feels downtown has been studied to death. He added that money would have to be put into the buildings in order to keep them. Rebecca discussed historic districts and design guidelines. Commissioner Rohlf stated that he feels the task force has been led in the direction to tear down rather than rehabilitate. For example, the Bluffs is not in character with the other buildings and is totally against the wild and scenic river district rules. He added that people are generally against the projects. Commissioners Harris and Lindberg agreed. Rebecca described how the policy recommendations were developed for Councilman Farber. 5. Review HPC Priorities/Policy Recommendations Chair Lindberg questioned whether there were any comments or questions on the policy recommendations. A question was raised on the first page as to who is going to conduct the economic development feasibility study and whether the HPC can be involved. Commissioner Nadeau-Peterson questioned whether the grants could be referenced.